Rolex Reference 8171 is lovingly
dubbed "Padellone", which translates to "large frying pan"
in Italian. Boasting a generous 38 mm case, it is slightly larger than its
waterproof Oyster sibling, reference 6062. Both references 8171 and 6062 were
the only two vintage Rolex models with moonphases, giving them a mythical
reputation and cult-like following. Produced for a very short period of time in
the early 1950s, reference 8171 and 6062 were available in yellow gold, pink
gold, and stainless steel. This is a true watch for the watch connoisseur. There are many who think the Daytona are the kind of Rolex but for me, the Rolex Moonphase is the real king. You will see more Rolex Daytona than the 8171 in the market. Nevertheless, the hype created by the various media and blog has successfully pushed up the prices of teh Rolex sports models and became very attractive to the new rich and younger consumers who love to follow the trend for big watches.
As with all
"Padellone" watches, the beauty lies in the dial. There are many
reconditioned dial. Those in original condition are few and far between and
appear infrequently on the market. To acquire a reference 8171 is a dream for
many collectors today. I am lucky to be able to find one in 2012 when I used
majority of my bonus on it. The 8171 uses the same Big bubbleback movement.
The Rolex
8171 was selling at US$90 for steel model and US$234 for gold model. Adjusted
for inflation, $90.00 in 1950 is equal to $979.99 in 2020.Adjusted for
inflation, $234.00 in 1950 is equal to $2,547.96 in 2020. Annual inflation
over this period was 3.47%.
- Cost of Living in 1950. The average income for the middle class citizen in 1950 was $2,992 annually. This would be approximately $29,000 today
- At the end of the 1950s decade a average car cost around 2,200 dollars, and a gallon of fuel was about 30. cents
A Timex cost anywhere between $8-$25 in the 1950's
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